Morning-After Pill (Emergency Contraception)
For more information on how emergency contraception works, its effectiveness and a run-down of its pros and cons, please [click here]
HOW DO I GET IT?
You can just stop by the clinic and tell the receptionist that you need ECP, or you can call ahead and make an appointment. Your partner, friend, or a family member can pick up and purchase the ECP (Plan B®) at our centre for the woman who needs it. However, ECP (Plan B®) is also available without a prescription in Nova Scotia pharmacies, and most pharmacists will give it to a male partner. It is more expensive at the pharmacy than it is at our clinic, but sometimes the pharmacy may be more convenient for you.
We have two emergency contraception options for you:
Yuzpe Method (Higher Dose Regular Birth Control Pills)
You will be given two doses of a strong birth control pill. You will take the first dose right away and then you will take the second dose 12 hours later. Because the medication has a high level of hormones, you may feel a little sick to your stomach after you take it. You will also be given Gravol® to take 30 minutes before each dose.
Plan B®
Plan B® is a medication that is made specifically for the purpose of emergency contraception. It has only one hormone in it – Progestin. The good thing about Plan B® is that it is less likely to make you feel sick to your stomach than the option described above. With Plan B®, you will be given a package that contains two pills. You can take both pills together, or you can take one pill right away, and the other pill 12 hours later. If you vomit after taking the medication, please call one of our nurses or a pharmacist. You may have vomited out the medication, which means you would not be protected against pregnancy.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
Higher Dose Regular Birth Control Pills cost $5 at our clinic. Plan B® costs $20 at our clinic. (Please note: These prices are subject to change. At the pharmacy, the cost of Plan B ranges from $22 - $42.)